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India Accuses Canada of Surveillance on Consular Officials
India has raised serious concerns over Canada’s alleged surveillance of Indian consular officials, describing the actions as “harassment and intimidation” in clear “flagrant violation” of diplomatic protocols.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that Indian diplomats have been placed under audio and video surveillance by Canadian authorities, which India views as an unacceptable intrusion.
India Formally Protests Canada’s Surveillance
During a media briefing, Jaiswal responded to questions regarding reports that several Indian diplomats stationed in Canada have been monitored by local authorities. He confirmed, “Yes, some of our consular officials were recently informed by the Canadian government that they have been and continued to be under audio and video surveillance. Their communications have also been intercepted. We have formally protested to the Canadian government, as we deem these actions to be in flagrant violation of relevant diplomatic and consular conventions.”
India’s government has lodged an official protest with Canada, stating that diplomatic and consular conventions should protect foreign officials from undue monitoring and interference. Jaiswal added that such surveillance practices threaten the diplomatic staff’s ability to operate freely and securely.
Diplomatic Tensions Amid Allegations and Expulsions
The tension between India and Canada has escalated since September last year, when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged a “potential” involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has categorically denied these accusations, arguing that the core issue is Canada’s tolerance toward pro-Khalistan elements, who openly operate from Canadian soil without restriction.
In a retaliatory move, India expelled six Canadian diplomats and called back its High Commissioner Sanjay Verma, along with other “targeted” officials. According to Jaiswal, “Our diplomatic and consular personnel are already functioning in an environment of extremism and violence. This action of the Canadian government aggravates the situation, and is incompatible with established diplomatic norms and practices.”
Calls for Diplomatic Resolution
As relations continue to strain, India has emphasized the need for Canada to uphold international diplomatic standards and cease any actions that could hinder the functioning of foreign consular staff. “By citing technicalities, the Canadian government cannot justify the fact that it is indulging in harassment and intimidation,” Jaiswal stated, calling for immediate resolution to restore normalcy in the functioning of Indian officials in Canada.
The ongoing standoff has highlighted deeper issues between the two nations, with India insisting that the primary point of contention remains Canada’s stance on allowing pro-Khalistan activities within its borders. This latest allegation of surveillance has added another layer of complexity to the already fraught diplomatic relationship between India and Canada.
